introduction
This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is quick and easy. It uses store-bought rotisserie chicken and simple pantry ingredients. For another easy creamy pasta idea, try this creamy chicken pot pie pasta.
why make this recipe
You can make a filling dinner in under 30 minutes. The rotisserie chicken saves time. Broccoli adds color and nutrition. The sauce is rich but simple.
how to make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Follow a few clear steps to cook pasta, make the sauce, and toss everything together. Use reserved pasta water to make the sauce smooth and glossy.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded (about 4 cups meat))
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced fine)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced small)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (whole milk, shredded)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions :
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pasta water.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water.
- Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat.
- Cook diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat completely.
- Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce is smooth.
- Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce and toss to coat.
- Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Add reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until the sauce is creamy and glossy.
- Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.
how to serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Serve hot in shallow bowls. Add extra grated Parmesan on top. Offer lemon wedges or a green salad on the side.
how to store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
tips to make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and taste. Do not boil the cream. Add pasta water slowly to control sauce thickness. Use cold butter at the end for shine.
variation (if any)
Swap penne for fusilli or rotini. Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Use spinach instead of broccoli for a milder green.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes. Add frozen broccoli during the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Use a little extra cheese and reduce broth to keep it creamy.
Q: How do I keep the cheese from getting grainy?
A: Remove the pan from heat before adding cheese and stir until smooth.
Q: Can I freeze this pasta?
A: Freezing may change the sauce texture. It is best eaten fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
Conclusion
This dish gives a fast, creamy weeknight meal with good flavor and simple steps. For another similar idea and more tips, see Creamy leftover rotisserie chicken pasta.